According to the SITA (a specialist in air transport communications and information technology), nearly 26 million bags go missing each year from airports around the world. Air travelers concerned about their valuables should check out the Trakdot Luggage tracker.

It fits into a checked bag and reports city location in real time to any mobile, Apple, Android, or SMS capable devices. Trakdot lets you keep track of checked-in luggage anywhere your mobile phone works.

Trakdot Luggage is built for travel convenience with a palm-sized tracker that fits easily into any size bag.  The luggage locator system delivers city-specific information on the whereabouts of checked baggage in real time. Even if your Trakdot-protected bag doesn’t reach the desired destination, you’ll still know which city your luggage is in.

Once the device is registered on the Trakdot website and placed inside a checked bag, it will deliver location information directly to your mobile phone or SMS device via text or email. Alternatively, you can track your luggage on Trakdot.com or use the free Trakdot Luggage app. An additional app alerts passengers as their baggage approaches on the carousel, making it easier than ever for them to find their bag.

The retail package includes the Trakdot Luggage device, luggage tag, and batteries.  It works globally with any cell phone or SMS enabled device for an annual price.  Each device can be linked to multiple phones, and each phone can track multiple devices (as with family applications).

Trakdot Luggage debuted at last week’s Consumer Electronics Show and will go on sale in March. It will cost US$49.95 with an activation fee of $8.99 and an annual service fee of $12.99.